President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged young Zimbabweans to take an active role in shaping the nation’s development trajectory, emphasising that they are “the masters of the country’s destiny.” He delivered the message during the 2026 National Youth Day celebrations held at Igava Training Centre in Marondera, Mashonaland East.
Addressing thousands of youths gathered for the commemorations, the President said youth empowerment remains a cornerstone of the Second Republic’s development agenda. He highlighted ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Youth Development and Vocational Training designed to expand access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities across all provinces.
“We are capacitating and empowering our young people, leaving no one behind. To the youths, do not forget that you are the masters of the country’s destiny,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also commended the job fair hosted during the event, noting that it provided young people with vital exposure to career pathways and employment prospects. He encouraged the youth to demonstrate diligence, discipline, and patriotism as they contribute to key economic sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, SMEs, and digital innovation.
“You are not merely spectators in our development journey; you are active participants demonstrating remarkable leadership. The targets in our National Development Strategy Two demand young people who are diligent, focused, hardworking and patriotic,” he said.
The President reaffirmed government support for youth-led initiatives in climate-smart agriculture, infrastructure development, digital technologies, and entrepreneurship. He noted that the 2026 National Budget contains dedicated allocations for youth development programmes, sports, and the creative industries.
As he concluded his address, President Mnangagwa encouraged open and continuous engagement between government and the youth, stressing that empowering young people is vital to achieving inclusive growth, innovation, and shared prosperity for all Zimbabweans.
